Whether you’re grabbing a morning flat white or settling in with a caramel frappuccino, Starbucks has become a staple in the daily lives of millions. But even if you visit regularly, there’s a good chance you don’t know everything about the world’s most iconic coffee chain. Here are ten fascinating Starbucks secrets that even the most loyal customers might not be aware of… but will definitely want to be.
1. The Original Logo Was Risqué
When Starbucks first opened its doors in 1971, its logo was far from the modern green siren we all recognise today. The original image featured a topless twin-tailed mermaid inspired by a 16th-century Norse woodcut. Over time, the logo was toned down to be more family-friendly, but it still pays homage to the brand’s maritime roots.
2. There’s a “Secret Menu” (But It’s Not Official)
If you’ve ever heard someone order a “Cotton Candy Frappuccino” or a “Butterbeer Latte”, they weren’t making it up. These drinks come from the unofficial Starbucks secret menu, a collection of fan-created recipes that use existing ingredients in creative ways. Just be sure to bring the full recipe with you, as baristas may not be familiar with all the quirky concoctions.
3. Starbucks Didn’t Start With Coffee
Surprisingly, Starbucks didn’t originally sell brewed coffee. When it opened in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, it focused on selling high-quality coffee beans, teas and brewing equipment. It wasn’t until Howard Schultz joined the company and travelled to Italy that he saw the potential of transforming Starbucks into a café-style experience.
4. The Size Names Are Inspired by Italian Café Culture
Ever wondered why a “Tall” is the smallest size on the Starbucks menu? It’s all thanks to Howard Schultz’s trip to Milan in the 1980s. Inspired by Italian coffee bars, he introduced size names like “Grande” and “Venti” to give the brand a more sophisticated European feel. It certainly worked, though it still confuses new customers!
5. There’s a Starbucks on a Swiss Mountain
Starbucks really does pop up in the most unexpected places. One of the most unique locations can be found high up in the Swiss Alps at the Verbier ski resort. It offers skiers a warm espresso break with panoramic mountain views. Other unusual stores include ones on a floating barge in Japan and inside a shipping container in Washington State.
6. Employees Have a Secret Language Too
It’s not just customers with secret drink orders. Starbucks baristas use a shorthand language to communicate quickly and clearly. For example, “BHR” stands for Berry Hibiscus Refresher, while “WC” means whipped cream. If you’ve ever wondered what those scribbles on your cup mean, now you know!
7. You Can Customise Almost Anything
Starbucks is famous for letting customers tweak their drinks to perfection. Want an oat milk, decaf, extra-hot, sugar-free vanilla latte with light foam and one shot of espresso? No problem. Some people take this to extremes, though, with orders reaching 15 customisations or more. It might take a little longer, but if it’s your perfect drink, it’s worth the wait.
8. Some Stores Don’t Play Music with Lyrics
Starbucks is known for its chilled atmosphere, and music is a big part of that. In some locations, especially those geared towards studying or work, you’ll only hear instrumental tracks. The company curates its playlists carefully and even shares them on Spotify for fans to enjoy at home.
9. Starbucks Has Its Own Coffee Farm
In 2013, Starbucks purchased Hacienda Alsacia, a coffee farm in Costa Rica. This isn’t just for show. The farm is a research and development hub focused on sustainability, ethical sourcing and growing better coffee. It’s open to visitors too, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how your morning brew begins its journey.
10. The Pumpkin Spice Latte Has Its Own Fan Club
Love it or hate it, the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) has become a cultural phenomenon. Launched in 2003, it’s now one of the most anticipated seasonal drinks each year. It even has its own verified Twitter account, and fans celebrate its return as if it’s a national holiday. Not bad for a drink that almost didn’t make the menu.
Conclusion
Even the most familiar brands can surprise us, and Starbucks is no exception. From its mysterious logo origins to its alpine cafés and customisable creations, there’s far more brewing behind the scenes than meets the eye.
Have a Starbucks secret of your own? Share it in the comments below or with your fellow coffee lovers. And if you enjoyed this article, why not pass it on to someone who lives for their next cup?